Act of Union

Union, Act of, British Parliamentary act of 1840 that officially united Upper Canada and Lower Canada. Two separate Canadas had originally been established to appease the English and French inhabitants. The act not only joined the two Canadas but also stipulated that a government should be formed, consisting of a colonial governor and a legislative assembly composed of members elected by the people. Under the act, English became the official government language.

See also: Canada.